This honors course examines issues common to the Asia
Pacific region with the intent of bringing a greater understanding of the
setting in which we and the University of Hawai'i operate. It intends a
critical examination of aspects of tradition, colonialism, and globalization,
with attention to indigenous perspectives and voices. The course assumes some
background in one or more of the focus regions: Hawai'i, the Pacific Islands,
or Asia and requires comparison among the three. It encourages independent
initiative in pursuing more depth in topics of individual interest or relevance
and in examining the interconnections among the three areas.

The course includes an
asynchronous component, using the Blackboard platform. After accessing
Blackboard http://www.maile.hawaii.edu/, follow the directions for online
introduction ALN 101 to familiarize yourself with its features. Consult the HAP
297 Blackboard announcement page after Friday afternoon each week regarding
activities or online discussions for the following week.

HAP 297 is an experimental course being offered for the
first time. At the end of the course we welcome constructive suggestions and
critique for future planning.

Course Structure

HAPS 297 is divided into three units arranged around the
following themes:

Historical
roots of interaction in the region

The
Dynamics of Colonialism

Contemporary Realities

Dr. Osorio will cover Hawai‘i, Dr. Teaiwa, the Pacific, and
Dr. Trimillos will deal with the Asia sections of each unit. While each one of
us will lecture on our own area of specialty and generally attend every lecture
we will definitely be present in the classroom on those days marked as
“Bookend” lectures. During these meetings we will tie in each of our respective
areas with assigned readings, the themes of the unit and invite critical
reflection from students on the connections and differences between and within
the three areas. Online discussion from the HAP 297 Blackboard will hopefully
feed into these meetings as well as student exercises for each unit.

Course Assessment

We will have 3 midterms consisting of short essay questions
and assign student exercises for each unit. Please refer to the attached
reading and lecture guide for midterms and exercise due dates.